Observer Weekly

March 4, 2025

Jefferson County, WV — News & Events

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Federal Firings Drive Local Protest

Over 200 people gathered in Harpers Ferry on March 1 to protest the recent mass firings of National Park Service and other federal government employees.

Local protest organizer Kierstyn Williams said that the event was one of 130 similar events held that day across the United States and organized in just three days via social media.

Attendees were encouraged to contact their elected representatives given the importance of public lands. According to the National Park Service, the Harpers Ferry National Park’s overall economic impact in 2023 was approximately $48 million.

>>>Read more...

Charles Town Buys Land For Downtown Park

The City of Charles Town recently acquired 2.9 acres of vacant land with the intention to develop it as a park. The property is on the north side of the downtown business district.

According to City Manager John Nissell, the city’s goal is to “master plan this space for public gathering. We are wed to keeping this as open space. Moving forward we will need to secure funds to hire a firm to begin the master plan which would include public meetings….”

The area north of the CSX tracks has become known as the “Depot District” and Nissell says he expects the name will be used for the future park as well.

>>>Read more...

A message from the Shepherdstown Opera House

Leave your cares behind and come dance with us! On Saturday, March 15 8pm The Last Rewind - DC’s Phish Tribute Band returns to the Shepherdstown Opera House. The band emphasizes faithful representation of Phish's technical prowess and improvisational connectedness while weaving in original concepts and jamming styles.

More info/tix at OperaHouseLive.com

Outdoor Drinking District Approved for Charles Town

Yesterday evening the Charles Town City Council approved a new ordinance to allow patrons of participating bars and restaurants to carry and consume alcoholic beverages outside of these licensed establishments.

The Council vote was 7 to 2 at its March 3 meeting after a second reading of the “Private Outdoor Designated Area” (PODA) ordinance, with councilpersons Priscilla Rodd and Elizabeth Ricketts voting against the ordinance.

The ordinance will not go into effect until the city installs the required signage around the perimeter of the designated area.

>>>Full story (with map images)...

Unity Campaign Supports Local Nonprofits

2025 marks the sixth year of the local Unity Campaign, a collaborative fundraising effort coordinated by the United Way of the Eastern Panhandle.

From March 1 to March 15, 100 percent of a donor’s contribution will go directly to the participating nonprofit organization of their choice. The eligible nonprofits include organizations that provide health, education, basic needs, and financial stability programs to individuals and families in the Eastern Panhandle.

>>>Read more...

A message from the Jefferson County CVB

The weather is heating up this week and so are the local restaurants! Enjoy delicious dining experiences, price-fix menus, and unbeatable specials and deals at your favorite local spots around Jefferson County.

Details at WhereAlmostHeavenBegins.com

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